The dramatic rise in air traffic, together with rapid residential and commercial development around US metropolitan areas, has strained the capacity of airports to serve the public safely and efficiently. This book explores the problem, drawing on both the expertise of professionals in the field and a grounding in law and public policy. It looks at the laws governing airport development and addresses the complex regulatory and policy issues surrounding the construction, expansion and operation of airports. Beginning with a review of airport regulation from 1903 onwards, Robert Hardaway examines aspects of regulatory power, including federal and local authority, local proprietorship and citizens’ concerns. Chapters on airport planning, financing and operation have been contributed by specialists with practical experience in these fields. The question of civil rights in employment and marketplace competition is also considered, and other topics include local, state and federal regulation of noise; responses to the terrorist threat; the airport as a public forum for free speech and the exercise of religion; the economics of regulation; and the impact of anti-trust legislation. Offering proposals for policy development as well as detailed analysis of current problems, the book is intended for students, educators and professionals concerned with air transportation development, management, policy and law.